What's Included In A Transmission Service?

It happens sooner for some vehicle types than for others, but if you drive your car long enough, it will need transmission repair at some point. Whether this means the transmission needs to be serviced, rebuilt or replaced may depend on how long the car has been driven with transmission issues, and how much damage has been done.

This can be avoided with regular servicing and inspection. A transmission service is recommended somewhere between every 50,000 and 150,000 miles, depending on your vehicle. Transmission repair and replacement average some the highest costs related to automobiles, so routinely maintaining your transmission will save you some serious money.

Importance of Transmission Service

A transmission service is simply the removal of the transmission fluid via a drain plug and then adding new transmission fluid. This process gives the transmission a sort of "cleanse" that helps reduce the strain on the components within the transmission and prolong its life.

A transmission service is essential due to the fact that by removing the old transmission fluid, any buildup that has occurred in the transmission will be removed also. The old residue inside of your transmission can potentially contaminate your fluid over time and put unnecessary stress on the transmission, thus increasing your chances of having to replace the transmission altogether.

A complete transmission service should include:

• Removing and examining the sump or pan (where possible)
• Replacing or cleaning the screen or filter
• Cleaning the pan
• Reinstalling the pan with a new pan gasket pumping out the rest of the old fluid and replacing it with new, high-quality automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
• Adding a friction modifier or additive package

Automatic Transmission Service

Automatic transmission gears deliver power from the engine to the drive wheels. Over time, the fluid inside the automatic transmission degrades. Manufacturers often recommend replacement at intervals stated in years of service or miles of driving. The interval may be shorter for severe use. Replacing transmission fluid at the vehicle manufacturer's recommended service intervals improves lubrication and helps to maximize the life of the transmission.

Manual Transmission Service

Manual transmission lubricant protects gears, bearings, shafts and other internal components. Changing the manual transmission fluid at the vehicle manufacturer's recommended interval can help prevent premature wear, damage to the transmission and costly repairs.

Transmission Flush & Fluid Change

Transmission fluid lubricates, cools and cleans internal transmission parts. Additives in the fluid can deplete over time and many manufacturers recommend that it be replaced periodically. Replacing your transmission fluid and filter according to your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations helps preserve the life of the transmission and helps maintain your vehicle warranty. Whether your vehicle has an automatic or manual transmission, your technician can help you determine which if any is necessary for your vehicle based on your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

With proper maintenance, most drivers can expect their transmissions to last well over the 150,000-mile mark and beyond. The key to longevity is spending a little money now on preventive maintenance, instead of a lot of money later on rebuilding or replacing the transmission. You can depend on the experts at Express Transmissions to get the job done. Call us today to talk about your next transmission service.